A Texas House committee on Wednesday began considering a bill that would require public schools to display the Ten Commandments in every classroom, reigniting a debate over the role of religion in public education.
Senate Bill 10, a priority of Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R), failed to pass the House in the last legislative session. Its hearing before the House Public Education Committee marks a significant step forward for the controversial measure this year.
"The way we treat others in society comes from the principles found in the Ten Commandments. In these days of classroom mayhem, it is time to return to the truth," Rep. Candy Noble (R-Lucas) said.
"My concern is when the government starts to pick and choose between religions. And it's not only a danger to the state and to democracy, it's also a danger to the church," Rep. James Talarico (D-Austin) said.
If approved by the committee, the bill could face a contentious battle in the full House. A similar law in Louisiana has been blocked by a federal court, signaling potential legal challenges ahead for Texas if the measure becomes law.
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